In 'Kartavya', director Pulkit presents a cop thriller that struggles to make an impact despite its ambitious themes. Saif Ali Khan returns as Pawan, a police officer entangled in a murder investigation and personal family issues. The film attempts to tackle serious subjects such as caste conflict and institutional decay but ultimately fails to explore these ideas in depth, resulting in a narrative that feels predictable and emotionally flat. The parallel drawn to the Mahabharata, particularly through the character of Pawan, is intriguing but underdeveloped, leaving the film lacking in complexity.

While the performances are commendable, particularly from Saif Ali Khan and child actor Yudhvir Ahlawat, who plays a boy caught in a web of exploitation, the film's writing does a disservice to Rasika Dugal, who portrays Pawan's wife. Her character is relegated to the background, failing to contribute meaningfully to the story. Overall, 'Kartavya' presents a competently crafted crime drama but struggles to justify its narrative amidst a saturated genre, leaving viewers questioning its necessity in the current streaming landscape.